The TST (Translational Molecular Summer Training) Program is an immersive 15‑week research experience designed for uOttawa undergraduates who are passionate about biomedical research. Participants work side-by-side with world-class researchers in the Faculty of Medicine, gaining practical lab experience and developing essential academic and professional skills.
Key Details:
Duration: 15 weeks (May to mid‑August)
Time Commitment: 19 hours per week of lab research
Eligibility: Open to uOttawa undergraduates enrolled in relevant health, biology, or biomedical programs. International students must ensure their visa allows full participation.
Compulsory Courses: Participants must enroll in TMM4311, TMM4906, and TMM4907.
Opportunities: Gain exposure to cutting-edge techniques, collaborate on interdisciplinary projects, and build your research network.
This program offers an invaluable “test-drive” into the world of biomedical research, preparing you for graduate studies or a research-oriented career.
Learn more on their website: https://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-medicine/translational-molecular/summer-training-program
For students in the natural sciences and engineering, the NSERC USRA Program provides financial support to engage in a 14- to 16‑week summer research project. This program is tailored to stimulate your interest in research and encourage the pursuit of graduate studies or a research career.
Key Details:
Project Duration: 14–16 consecutive weeks, with project start dates between May 1 and June 1, 2025.
Application Deadline: March 17, 2025, at 5:00 PM ET
Award Announcement: April 7, 2025
Eligibility: Open to uOttawa undergraduates (excluding those in professional health science programs) who are Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or protected persons, with a minimum CGPA of 7.5. Priority is given to third- and fourth-year students.
Application Process: Secure a research supervisor and complete NSERC Form 202 (Parts I & II) online.
This competitive award not only provides financial support but also paves the way for future research opportunities and academic advancement.
Learn more on their website: https://www.uottawa.ca/research-innovation/international-research-experiential-learning/undergraduate-student-research-awards-program-nsrec
HOSA’s research competitions are a fantastic platform for students passionate about health science research. The HOSA Research Poster Event allows you to develop a community-focused research question, design a compelling poster, and deliver a dynamic 4‑minute presentation at the International Leadership Conference (ILC). But that’s not all—HOSA offers a suite of competitive events to further sharpen your skills in research and leadership.
Key Details:
Who Can Compete: uOttawa undergraduates in any faculty who are registered HOSA members.
Digital Poster Deadline: Upload your research poster by May 15 (final deadline for ILC pre-judging).
Event Components:
Research Poster: Create an eye-catching poster summarizing your research question, methods, results, and conclusions.
Oral Presentation: Deliver a concise presentation during the poster session to a panel of judges who are physicians and healthcare professionals.
Competitive Edge: In addition to the poster event, there are many other competitive events offered by HOSA that challenge your knowledge and enhance your leadership skills in health science. Be sure to check them out!
This event is not only a chance to showcase your innovative ideas but also an opportunity to network with peers, receive valuable feedback, and build a standout resume.
Learn more on their website: https://hosacanada.org/home/
The Undergraduate Science Research Opportunity (USRO) Program is tailored for full-time second-, third-, and fourth-year students in the Faculty of Science. USRO fosters your interest in scientific inquiry by providing experiential learning under the guidance of a uOttawa professor.
Key Details:
Eligibility: Open to full-time second-, third-, and fourth-year undergraduate students in the Faculty of Science with a strong academic record (CGPA requirements apply). Students must not have previously received a UROP or USRO scholarship or have studied at the master’s level.
Project Requirements: Complete a research project over a 75-hour period, undertaken part time.
Application Deadline: Submit your documents (unofficial transcript, project description, and statement of interest in PDF format) by October 15, 2024, at 11:59 PM ET.
Notification: Acceptance replies are sent out by November 1.
USRO is a perfect springboard for those aiming to pursue graduate studies or a research career, offering hands-on experience and a deep dive into scientific research.
Learn more on their website: https://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-science/research-publications/research-opportunities-students/usro
The University of Ottawa’s Faculty of Science is a hub for groundbreaking research. Faculty members, graduate students, and collaborators work together on projects that push the boundaries of our understanding of life, from molecular mechanisms and genetics to ecology and environmental science. An Honours Thesis Project is a major independent research project undertaken by students in the final year of an honours program. It provides an opportunity to work closely with a faculty supervisor on a topic of personal and academic interest. During this project, you will:
Develop a Research Question: Identify a specific, meaningful question or problem to investigate.
Design and Conduct Research: Plan your methodology, gather and analyze data—whether through lab work, field studies, or literature research.
Produce a Written Thesis: Compile your findings and analyses into a comprehensive written document that demonstrates your research process and results.
Present Your Work: Often, you’ll also be expected to present your findings to peers and faculty, helping to refine your communication skills.
This project not only deepens your understanding of your field but also prepares you for graduate studies or a research-based career by honing your critical thinking, problem-solving, and scientific writing skills.
Learn more on their website: https://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-science/biology/research-projects